U055A00

U055A00 is a CAN bus communication protocol layer fault code — Atto 8

Braking System

U055A00 is a CAN bus communication protocol layer fault code.

It indicates the IPB (Intelligent Integrated Braking System/One-Box) detects that the data frame length (DLC) of a received VCU (Vehicle Control Unit) CAN message does not match the specified protocol, or the data payload length check fails.

This network communication data link layer error means the VCU transmitted an abnormal message structure (e.g., sending 6 bytes instead of the protocol-specified 8 bytes, or using incorrect padding bytes).

In Song PLUS DMi models, the VCU and IPB communicate via the chassis CAN or powertrain CAN to transmit key signals such as vehicle speed, torque request, and regenerative braking level.

If the data length is incorrect, the IPB cannot correctly interpret the vehicle status.

This can trigger braking system downgrade protection, limit ESC, ABS, and regenerative braking functions, and severely compromise driving safety.

5
Cases Logged
5
Causes
  • 1VCU software defect or version mismatch: The VCU control program contains a bug causing the transmitted CAN frame data length field to mismatch the actual payload, or the VCU contains incorrectly flashed vehicle model configuration data.
  • 2IPB software version too old: Brake system software is incompatible with the new VCU communication protocol, causing standard data frame parsing logic errors.
  • 3CAN network physical layer fault: Electromagnetic interference on the powertrain CAN bus, loose wiring connections, or an abnormal terminating resistor corrupts the data frame length field during transmission.
  • 4Gateway module routing fault: If the VCU and IPB communicate across network segments (forwarded via the gateway), the gateway truncates data, generates padding errors, or causes a buffer overflow when forwarding data.
  • 5Abnormal power supply voltage: Unstable VCU or IPB power supply (12V battery voltage below 9V or above 16V) causes the communication controller to transmit and receive abnormal data frames.
  • 1
    Use the BYD VDS1000/VDS2000 diagnostic tool to read complete fault codes and freeze frame data. Record key parameters at the time of the fault, such as vehicle speed, gear position, and CAN communication load. Check for accompanying communication fault codes (such as U01A0 or U0100).
  • 2
    Check the VCU and IPB software version numbers. Log in to the BYD TPI (Technical Product Information) system and check for a software upgrade bulletin for this fault code. Confirm software compatibility between both control units.
  • 3
    Measure the termination resistance between CAN-H and CAN-L at the diagnostic port (OBD) (standard value 60Ω ± 5Ω; single module 120Ω) and the static voltage (CAN-H approx. 2.6V, CAN-L approx. 2.4V, differential voltage approx. 0.2V). Use an oscilloscope to check the CAN waveform for abnormal spikes or bit stuffing errors.
  • 4
    Check the VCU (left side of the front compartment) and IPB (motor compartment front bulkhead) power supply circuits (constant power B+ and ignition power IG) and ground points G202 and G301. Verify the voltage remains stable within 12V±0.5V to rule out power supply voltage drops causing communication faults.
  • 5
    Perform network communication monitoring: Select the 'Bus Analysis' function in VDS and monitor specific ID messages sent from the VCU to the IPB in real time (e.g., 0x130 vehicle status frame, 0x180 torque request frame). Verify the DLC field matches the standard length specified by the protocol (usually 8 bytes).
  • 6
    If the software version is normal and there are no wiring faults, perform a network sleep/wake test: disconnect the battery negative terminal for more than 5 minutes, clear all adaptive values and fault codes, reconnect the power, and perform the IPB bleeding calibration and steering angle sensor calibration. Conduct a road test (including rapid acceleration, energy recovery, and emergency braking conditions).
  • 7
    If the fault recurs intermittently, first update the VCU software to the latest version according to the workshop manual (some batches require a simultaneous IPB update). If the update fails, replace the VCU assembly, perform immobilizer matching, and write the system configuration.
BYD DTC AI Analysis

After VCU software upgrade on the Song PLUS DM-i, the IPB reported a data length error.

Vehicle came in for routine maintenance. The technician upgraded the VCU software to optimise the energy recovery strategy but failed to check the IPB version. The next day, the customer reported intermittent ABS and ESC warning lights on the dash while driving. VDS scanning showed IPB code U055A00 (current fault); the VCU showed no faults. Technicians found the VCU now ran V3.2.1 while the IPB remained on old V2.1.0. The new VCU had modified the 0x180 message data structure (adding a 2-byte reserved field), but the IPB detected a length mismatch when parsing with the old protocol. After upgrading the IPB software to V2.5.0, the fault codes cleared and a 20 km road test showed no recurrence.
BYD DTC AI Analysis

Multiple braking system warning lights illuminated after driving on rough roads.

The customer reported that after driving over a speed bump, the instrument cluster suddenly displayed "Check Brake System" and "Check ESP". VDS detected U055A00 (historical fault) in the IPB with abnormal CAN signals. Found poor contact at the chassis CAN harness connector (GJB01) on the left front longitudinal beam; internal terminals were loose and the fault returned when wiggling the harness. Disassembling the connector revealed that seal deterioration allowed water ingress, oxidizing the terminals. Repaired the terminals, applied conductive grease, replaced the waterproof seal, and wrapped the connection. CAN resistance measured normal and the fault cleared.
BYD DTC AI Analysis

Gateway module failure caused abnormal communication between network segments.

Song PLUS DMi intermittently showed simultaneous warning lights for the powertrain, brake, and steering systems. VDS scan revealed IPB U055A00, TCU U0100, and communication timeouts in multiple modules. Testing at the diagnostic port revealed an intermittent internal short in the Gateway Module (GWM, located below the dashboard) between Powertrain CAN and Chassis CAN, truncating data frames from the VCU to the IPB during routing. Replaced the gateway controller, configured vehicle parameters and the CAN network matrix online, and restored normal communication across all systems. Fault completely resolved.
BYD DTC AI Analysis

Aftermarket dashcam causing CAN bus interference

After fitting an aftermarket 360-degree surround view camera system, the ESC warning light occasionally illuminated and cleared after a restart. VDS retrieved IPB history DTC U055A00. Inspection revealed the installer had bundled the dash cam power cable with the CAN bus harness (twisted pair) when routing through the A-pillar, and tapped power from the IPB supply fuse, creating electromagnetic interference. Oscilloscope monitoring revealed periodic spike interference on the CAN bus. Rerouted the wiring loom, kept CAN lines more than 20cm from high-voltage and power cables, and ran a separate power feed for the dash cam. The fault cleared.
BYD DTC AI Analysis

VCU hardware fault generating continuous error frames

The vehicle failed to power up the high-voltage system. The instrument cluster displayed "Powertrain System Fault" and "Braking System Fault". VDS scanning revealed intermittent loss of communication with the VCU, and the IPB showed current fault code U055A00. Checked VCU power supply and ground — both normal. However, CAN bus monitoring revealed the VCU continuously transmitting malformed data frames (DLC=8 but only 3 bytes of actual data, with CRC errors). Disassembled the VCU and found the internal CAN transceiver chip (TJA1145) damaged, causing the bus fault. Replaced the VCU assembly, performed immobilizer matching, VIN programming and system configuration. Vehicle returned to normal and fault codes have not reappeared.
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Data confidence: Official This information is for reference only. Always consult a qualified technician for diagnosis and repair. Do not attempt high-voltage system repairs yourself.